Question!

[mokee 588]

I had sleeve surgery almost 3 yrs ago. I lost a total of 108 lbs when I evened out. I was satisfied and so happy with my success. I went from a 24-26 clothing to a 14. This was great and I filled my walkin closet with size 14. Now since Jan of this year I started gaining. I am up 19 lbs as of today. Very depressing. My clothes are all tight and I feel miserable.

My question is, "Does the sleeve stretch"?

I know I have to get back to all Protein again but as everyone knows that was extremely overweight that is easier said then done. Once I let carbs back in at the beginning of this year I crave them so.

If it stretched I guess I am out of luck. Looking forward to your info.

[twinhappy 79]

My surgeon told me the sleeve can be stretched over time from starchy foods, carbonation and over eating. At least you have caught this before you had to go up a size. You know what you need to do! Good luck :-)

[Inner Surfer Girl 12,015]

I don't think you are out of luck.

For me, once I eat carbs, I crave carbs. The best way not to crave them is not to eat them. Try cutting out all starches for a few days and you may find you no longer crave them.

You have come so far and done so well, I hate to see you so discouraged and fatalistic. Why not make an appointment with your NUT? In the meantime, try going back to basics. Are you getting in all your Protein and Fluid every day? Are you eating Protein first? Are you exercising.

Rather than focus on whether or not your sleeve may or may not have stretched, try focusing on your choices.

Best of luck.

[Proud2BMe 1,016]

The sleeve doesn't actually stretch. What happens is that your body will adapt by keeping the food in your stomach for less and less time. As a result, you will steadily begin to eat more and more. Within 5 years most people with sleeves can consume a normal dinner plate portion of food.

The ideal is to get the majority of the weight you need to lose off before that happens. Therefore, when you reach that mark you will be on maintenance.

[jumanab66 0]

From a dietitian's perspective, here are a few tips to keep your stomach from stretching:

1- Do not eat and drink at the same time. It's best to wait 30 minutes before and after your meal before you resume your drinking

2- Avoid carbonated beverages since the gas will cause major stomach discomfort and possible stretching.

3- Try not to push yourself to eat beyond your 'new' satiety feeling

For more information do not hesitate to ask me anything regarding bariatric surgery and nutrition